Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 66:9 "Lay your hands upon the sick, and they shall recover. Return not till I, the Lord, shall send you. Be patient in affliction. Ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
The part "be patient in affliction" reminded me of the recent Facebook post by President Jeffrey R. Holland. He mentioned how there will be trouble and challenges ahead for all of us, before the millennium. But great will be the peace of our children. They will know no fear or terror, if they are taught of the Lord. How important it is for us to be righteous and teach our children the words of the Lord. Afflictions are coming, but the through the divine attribute of patience and relying on the Lord we will receive His protection and power.
"It's a prophecy about the last days. It's a prophecy about Zion and what will yet be established. And it talks about strong stakes, lengthen your cords, and the nice imagery of stakes and how you put up a tent - how you put up a tabernacle in their case. When we have trouble and we're in mortality - and this is not the celestial kingdom, if you thought it was, you took a wrong turn down there, but we're in mortality first - and there are going to be troubles. There's going to be difficulty. There's going to be personal challenges. There's going to be family challenges. There's going to be neighborhood and state and national challenges." "In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment, but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy Redeemer. For the mountains shall depart and the hills be removed, but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee. O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted! Behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colors, and lay thy foundations with sapphires. And I will make thy windows of agates, and thy gates of carbuncles, and all thy borders of pleasant stones. And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children. In righteousness shalt thou be established; thou shalt be far from oppression for thou shalt not fear, and from terror for it shall not come near thee." (3 Nephi 22:8, 10-14) "What a terrific, quick series. That's only verse 8 through verse 14. What a marvelous series of reassurances: mercy and kindness, and a covenant of peace, and a strong Zion structure, and our children blessed. And in righteousness they'll be far from fear, and they'll be far from terror. And none of those shall come near us." (Jeffrey R. Holland, Facebook and Instagram post 27 Mar 2025)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 65:3 "Yea, a voice crying—Prepare ye the way of the Lord, prepare ye the supper of the Lamb, make ready for the Bridegroom."
As I read this chapter the four times it says to prepare stood out to me. "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." and "be prepared for the days to come.." I feel like general conference will emphases this again. We are preparing a people, ready for the second coming of the Lord. The bar continues to be raised. "The Son of Man shall come down in heaven, clothed in the brightness of his glory, to meet the kingdom of God which is set up on the earth." This is our quest, we must be prepared.
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 64:34 "Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land of Zion in these last days."
The "willing mind" stood out to me. I pondered on how I can do the Lord's will but if my heart and mind is not in it, then its not enough. At that point doing what's right is only for show. The Lord wants us fully committed. I may not be perfect at what is asked, but I can be willing.
"But remember, the Lord has never required expert, flawless missionary efforts. Instead, “the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Missionary Work: Sharing What is in Your Heart", Apr 2019 General Conference)
"But the Lord requires not only outward acts but also your inner thoughts and feelings to be close to the spirit of the law. God “require[s] the heart and a willing mind.” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "A Matter of a Few Degrees", Apr 2008 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 63:54 " And until that hour there will be foolish virgins among the wise; and at that hour cometh an entire separation of the righteous and the wicked; and in that day will I send mine angels to pluck out the wicked and cast them into unquenchable fire."
I had an interesting experience yesterday. I was talking to someone that withdrew their membership from the church. Their rules are that I do not speak of the second coming or Jesus Christ. They want nothing to do with the church or religion. So, I can't say anything. They were telling me how scared and almost in a state of panic they were over what was happening in the world. Their fears in most cases are legitimate, in others they border on paranoia. As they talked I thought about the peace I had because of my faith in Jesus Christ. Words I could not say to them. Instead I said, "I wish I could give you what I have." They replied that they wished I could too. We both knew it was something they had to obtain on their own, which they rejected the process.
Since then I have reflected on the parable of the ten virgins. How I have seen it first hand. Those that wanted oil in their lamps need to obtain it on their own. I cannot give you my oil for it was obtained one drop at a time through the precious blood of my Savior. That is how I know Him, and have peace through him come what may.
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 62:1 "Behold, and hearken, O ye elders of my church, saith the Lord your God, even Jesus Christ, your advocate, who knoweth the weakness of man and how to succor them who are tempted."
I loved this verse. It tells me that when I am tempted I can turn to the Lord and he will succor me. He will give me the strength to endure, or overcome what hangs over me. I know this is true because I have been there and used this part of the atonement of Jesus Christ. He has strengthened me when I am weak. I now have a verse for it.
"In addition to providing the majestic gift of salvation, the Savior offers us relief and comfort as we face our afflictions, temptations, and weaknesses of mortal life, including the circumstances we have experienced recently in the current pandemic. I can assure you that Christ is ever aware of the adversities we experience in mortality. He understands all of the bitterness, agony, and physical pain as well as the emotional and spiritual challenges we face. The Savior’s bowels are filled with mercy, and He is always ready to succor us. This is possible because He personally experienced and took upon Himself in the flesh the pain of our weakness and infirmities" (Ulisses Soares, "Jesus Christ: The Caregiver of Our Soul", April 2021 General Conference)
"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 61:36, 38 "And now, verily I say unto you, and what I say unto one I say unto all, be of good cheer, little children; for I am in your midst, and I have not forsaken you; Gird up your loins and be watchful and be sober, looking forth for the coming of the Son of Man, for he cometh in an hour you think not."
I love the encouragement and the direction given. We are to be of good cheer, knowing the Lord is in our midst, and He is coming again.
"The best is yet to come, my dear brothers and sisters, because the Savior is coming again! The best is yet to come because the Lord is hastening His work. The best is yet to come as we fully turn our hearts and our lives to Jesus Christ. I bear my solemn witness that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. I am His disciple. I am honored to be His servant. At His Second Coming, “the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.” That day will be filled with joy for the righteous!" (Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 60:3 "And it shall come to pass, if they are not more faithful unto me, it shall be taken away, even that which they have."
This made me think of when the Lord has taken things away from me for a lack of faithfulness. Immediately, I thought of all the attempts over the years to read my scriptures daily. I would do good and then slip, and slip and slip, until I wasn't reading them at all. Over and over I had this pattern. Each time I restarted I had to learn all over again, because I failed to retain the knowledge previously learned. (It was taken away.) That was until almost 15 years ago. That is when I committed to reading my scriptures daily and have not missed a day. Doing this I was finally able to retain what I learned and build upon it.
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 59:21 "And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things, and obey not his commandments."
I reflected on how my soul feels when I acknowledge anything that is good that happens comes from God. Its not even a forced conversation. I truly feel it in my heart. Even when hard times come I know He is there for me and will make things right. He does not fail in his promises. As I acknowledge His hand in all things the Spirit confirms to me that is true and I feel closer to Him.
"Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Whatsoever ye ask the Father in my name it shall be given unto you, that is expedient for you;" (Doctrine and Covenants 88:63-64)
"I do not think that God is insulted when we forget Him. Rather, I think He is deeply disappointed. He knows that we have deprived ourselves of the opportunity to draw closer to Him by remembering Him and His goodness. We then miss out on Him drawing nearer to us and the specific blessings He has promised." (Dale G. Renlund, "Consider the Goodness and Greatness of God", Apr 2020 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 58:3, 7 "Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation. And also that you might be honored in laying the foundation, and in bearing record of the land upon which the Zion of God shall stand;"
Hindsight is 20/20. Looking back at this revelation we can see why Zion was never built in Jackson County, Missouri. The Lord even told the saints they were laying the foundation. He never told the saint at that time they would complete the building of Zion. So much of what I stand on today is because of the foundation laid by the early saints. I even reflected on the beginning of family history work with the establishment of "The Genealogical Society of Utah", and now it has blossomed into FamilySearch. Helping members around the world identify their kindred death and perform temple ordinances on their behalf.
“… The All-knowing One knew in advance what those Zion-builders would do, or leave undone, and he shaped his plans accordingly. Evidently the time was not ripe for Zion’s redemption. The Saints were not ready to build the New Jerusalem” (Elder Orson F. Whitney, "Saturday Night Thoughts: A Series of Dissertations on Spiritual, Historical, and Philosophic Themes" [1921], 187). (Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual, "Chapter 21: Doctrine and Covenants 57-58")
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 57:3-4 "And thus saith the Lord your God, if you will receive wisdom here is wisdom. Behold, the place which is now called Independence is the center place; and a spot for the temple is lying westward, upon a lot which is not far from the courthouse. Wherefore, it is wisdom that the land should be purchased by the saints, and also every tract lying westward, even unto the line running directly between Jew and Gentile;"
I think every saint waits for the day a temple is announced for Independence Missouri. Even if its just turning the visitor center into one. After the saints were driven from that area we have slowly worked towards purchasing the necessary land again. What was dedicated as the temple lot site is not even owned by the church. It was a surprise one day to find the Community of Christ sold us the Kirtland temple. That makes the possibility of one day owning the land in Independence feel even closer. Even though the headquarters of the church will move to this center place I don't feel all the saints will gather there too. Just like Salt Lake City, Utah is the center place today and not all saints live here. It was just yesterday, I happened to say to my family that I feel like I will be in my home during the millennium, and my place to gather to Zion is down the street in my stake house. That is where my place of refuge is. My place to see the Lord is in the temple on the hill.
"And that the gathering together upon the land of Zion, and upon her stakes, may be for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth." (Doctrine and Covenants 115:6)
"For the day of my visitation cometh speedily, in an hour when ye think not of; and where shall be the safety of my people, and refuge for those who shall be left of them?" (Doctrine and Covenants 124:10)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 56:14 "Behold, thus saith the Lord unto my people—you have many things to do and to repent of; for behold, your sins have come up unto me, and are not pardoned, because you seek to counsel in your own ways."
This is really good counsel, to not counsel the Lord, and to take the counsel given. The Lord's house is a house of order and if man just disregarded or disobeyed counsel it would be anything but a house of order. Now is man perfect? No, and neither do we expect others are either. We are all learning, growing and in need of repentance. The road to repentance is better than the road to apostasy. The other day someone was talking to me and mentioned something questionable that a former bishop was doing. It wasn't really grievous. It was more they were expecting perfection. They couldn't believe this man had been a bishop. I tried to turn the conversation around and began with describing the mantle of a bishop. How I've seen changes in men that are called, and they are stronger and able to carry the load when that mantle in upon them. Then when they eventually are released it is no longer there. I would not question the Lord's choice for he qualifies and strengthen his servants. It has no bearing on the person's actions today. This lead us to a wonderful conversation on how we have witness this change that comes upon those called and serving. We don't need to question the Lord's ways.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9)
"Some actually question God’s capacity, this in the face of His assurance to us: “I am able to do my own work.” Therefore, murmuring can be another form of mocking God’s plan of salvation. Yes, such individuals say, God has an overall general plan, but we don’t care for His specific timing. Yet the scriptures specifically advise us that “all things must come to pass in their time. "Yes, such individuals may acknowledge God, but they criticize His ways. We want things to be done in our ways, even though our ways are much lower ways. " (Neal A. Maxwell, "Murmur Not", Oct 1989 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 55:4 "And again, you shall be ordained to assist my servant Oliver Cowdery to do the work of printing, and of selecting and writing books for schools in this church, that little children also may receive instruction before me as is pleasing unto me."
Schools in Zion have fascinated me since home schooling my children. These first schools for children were not just religious training like "Come, Follow Me", for Sunday School and Primary as we have now. These schools were for the complete education including, reading, writing, arithmetic, science and history. These were church sponsored schools but now there are only the universities. I have felt that BYU Pathways is moving us along this path once again. I cannot imagine as the world grows darker that textbooks and curriculums for children are not coming. For now we are learning the basics of teaching our children in the home with "Come, Follow Me". I will continue to watch and see what develops with interest.
"And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children." (3 Nephi 22:13)
"Behold, I say unto you, concerning the school in Zion, I, the Lord, am well pleased that there should be a school in Zion, and also with my servant Parley P. Pratt, for he abideth in me." (Doctrine and Covenants 97:3)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 54:10 "And again, be patient in tribulation until I come; and, behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, and they who have sought me early shall find rest to their souls. Even so. Amen."
Patience is a divine attribute, and one of the hardest to achieve. For it is only through trials that we gain patience. Recently, I have been reflecting on the parable of the laborers in the vineyard found in Matthew 20. While I read this verse the thought of those that "sought me early" were like the laborers that were hired first. Now in the parable those that worked all day were upset that those hired in the last hour received the same wages. I think as this verse implies the benefit those that were hired early had was rest to their souls. They knew they were employed and receiving wages. Something those hired last did not enjoy throughout the long day. The Lord treated them all the same in the end, but I think I would prefer to have the rest to my soul for as long as possible.
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 53:2, 7 "Behold, I, the Lord, who was crucified for the sins of the world, give unto you a commandment that you shall forsake the world. And again, I would that ye should learn that he only is saved who endureth unto the end. Even so. Amen."
What does it mean to "forsake the world"? As I pondered on this I thought about how to forsake doesn't mean you just leave it behind. You must be filled with something in its place. That would be a heart turned to Jesus Christ and eternal life. The focus and heart's desire is for something better, and the things of the world will not stop you.
"Therefore, forsake the world and save your souls; for what is a man profited if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 16:29)
"What is the meaning of these scriptural cautions and commandments not to be “of the world” or the modern commandment to “forsake the world”? President Thomas S. Monson summarized these teachings: “We must be vigilant in a world which has moved so far from that which is spiritual. It is essential that we reject anything that does not conform to our standards, refusing in the process to surrender that which we desire most: eternal life in the kingdom of God." (Dallin H. Oaks, "The Plan and the Proclamation", Oct 2017 General Conference)
"The Prophet said that if we would go where God is, we must be like him; that is, we must develop the characteristics and the attributes and the perfections which God has. The struggle which we face is whether we will overcome the world or whether we will be overcome by the world. All men forsake the world when they come into the Church; they then overcome the world if they continue in righteousness and in diligence in keeping the commandments of God. No one has overcome the world, the world of carnality and corruption, until he has given his heart to Christ, until he uses all his talents, abilities, and strength in keeping the commandments of God, and in causing this great work to roll forth." (Bruce R. McConkie, "Overcome the World", April 1955 General Conference)
"Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained: “In the Church, we often state the couplet: ‘Be in the world but not of the world.’ … “Perhaps we should state the couplet … as two separate admonitions. First, ‘Be in the world.’ Be involved; be informed. Try to be understanding and tolerant and to appreciate diversity. Make meaningful contributions to society through service and involvement. Second, ‘Be not of the world.’ Do not follow wrong paths or bend to accommodate or accept what is not right. “… In spite of all of the wickedness in the world, and in spite of all the opposition to good that we find on every hand, we should not try to take ourselves or our children out of the world. Jesus said, ‘The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven,’ or yeast. (Matt. 13:33.) We are to lift the world and help all to rise above the wickedness that surrounds us” (“The Effects of Television,” Ensign, May 1989, 80). (Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual "Chapter 20: Doctrine and Covenants 51-56")
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 52:16 "He that speaketh, whose spirit is contrite, whose language is meek and edifieth, the same is of God if he obey mine ordinances."
This is the covenant path. Every ordinance and covenant made and kept has us on that path. There have been many wonderful talks on the covenant path, here are a few of my favorites.
"What is the covenant path? It is the one path that leads to the celestial kingdom of God. We embark upon the path at the gate of baptism and then “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men [the two great commandments] … to the end.” In the course of the covenant path (which, by the way, extends beyond mortality), we receive all the ordinances and covenants pertaining to salvation and exaltation." "A second unique aspect of the covenant path is our relationship with Deity. The covenants God offers to His children do more than guide us. They bind us to Him, and, bound to Him, we can overcome all things" (D. Todd Christofferson, "Why the Covenant Path", April 2021 General Conference)
"We enter the covenant path by being baptized and making our first covenant with God. [To understand the covenant path, it is important to understand that a covenant involves a two-way commitment between God and one of His children. In a covenant, God sets the terms, and we agree to those terms. In exchange, God makes promises to us. Many covenants are accompanied by outward signs—or sacred ordinances—in which we participate with witnesses present. For example, baptism is a sign to the Lord that the person being baptized has made a covenant to keep the commandments of God.] Each time we partake of the sacrament, we promise again to take the name of the Savior upon us, to remember Him, and to keep His commandments. In return, God assures us that we may always have the Spirit of the Lord to be with us. Later we make additional covenants in the temple, where we receive even greater promises. Ordinances and covenants give us access to godly power. The covenant path is the only path that leads to exaltation and eternal life." (Russell M. Nelson, "The Power of Spiritual Momentum", April 2022 General Conference)
"The term covenant path refers to a series of covenants whereby we come to Christ and connect to Him. Through this covenant bond, we have access to His eternal power. The path begins with faith in Jesus Christ and repentance, followed by baptism and receiving the Holy Ghost. Jesus Christ showed us how to enter the path when He was baptized" "...We become His disciples and represent Him well when we intentionally and incrementally take on ourselves the name of Jesus Christ through covenants. Our covenants give us power to stay on the covenant path because our relationship with Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father is changed. We are connected to Them by a covenantal bond." "As you walk the covenant path, from baptism to the temple and throughout life, I promise you power to go against the natural worldly flow—power to learn, power to repent and be sanctified, and power to find hope, comfort, and even joy as you face life’s challenges. I promise you and your family protection against the influence of the adversary, especially when you make the temple a major focus in your life." (Dale G. Renlund, "Accessing God's Power through Covenants", April 2023 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 51:20 "Verily, I say unto you, I am Jesus Christ, who cometh quickly, in an hour you think not. Even so. Amen."
I have been thinking much about the pregnant woman. She does not know the hour or day of delivery, but she knows the month and year. She knows the signs. Even thought I knew when my children were due the pains of childbirth begin when I was not expecting it. The time is here and nothing else matters. Those that are watching for the signs of Christ's coming will not be taken completely off guard and unaware, though it will still be suddenly to us.
"For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape." (1 Thessalonians 5:3)
"Watch, therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour." (Doctrine and Covenants 133:11)
"Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh." (Matthew 24:44)
"Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not." (Luke 12:40)
"Gird up your loins and be watchful and be sober, looking forth for the coming of the Son of Man, for he cometh in an hour you think not." (Doctrine and Covenants 61:38)
"And again, verily I say unto you, the coming of the Lord draweth nigh, and it overtaketh the world as a thief in the night—" (Doctrine and Covenants 106:4)
"Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come; for behold, it cometh quickly, saith the Lord. Amen." (Doctrine and Covenants 87:8)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 50:2 "Behold, verily I say unto you, that there are many spirits which are false spirits, which have gone forth in the earth, deceiving the world."
This reminded me how I used to love to watch paranormal shows were people hunted and tried to communicate with ghosts. They would put cameras up and make audio recordings. Some of their findings were pretty amazing. Hearing the recorded voices always disturbed my spirit, which is never a good sign. But, I was so curious as to what these ghosts were. I knew there were righteous angels and spirit that were sent from God for specific messages. But, what were these other spirits?
The light did not come on until I realized they were deceiving spirits. Mischievous spirits of deceased individuals or Satan's followers trying to deceive. That's why no one was able to catch these ghosts. They were playing with them. They were making people waste their time running after them. Deceiving spirits can appear as little children, famous people of the ages, anyone in history they want to be. A true spirit sent from God would not cause us to run around foolishly after them. When a true spirit has a message he will deliver it and be done. The power to discern spirits and their true source is a gift of the Holy Ghost. I vowed never to waste my time watching another show like those again. Why would you want to even play with this? This is not entertainment, it's evil. They truly have no lasting value and can only lead to deception.
"‘For nothing is a greater injury to the children of men than to be under the influence of a false spirit when they think they have the Spirit of God’ (Joseph Smith, "Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith", p. 205)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 49:8 "Wherefore, I will that all men shall repent, for all are under sin, except those which I have reserved unto myself, holy men that ye know not of."
I asked myself "Who are these holy men that God reserved unto himself?" I didn't find an answer to that. So I made my own list of possibilities. First, I identified who the Lord was addressing. This chapter is directed to the Shakers. This is some background found in the chapter header.
"In prefacing this revelation, the Prophet wrote, “In order to have a more perfect understanding on the subject, I inquired of the Lord, and received the following.” The revelation refuted some of the basic concepts of the Shaker group. The aforementioned brethren took a copy of the revelation to the Shaker community (near Cleveland, Ohio) and read it to them in its entirety, but it was rejected."
Since this was being read to the Shakers they would be holy men they were not aware of. To start they would not have know that Joseph Smith, Jr. was a prophet of God and that is indeed a holy man. But, being still a mortal man he probably still needed repentance. I thought about those that were reserved then that never tasted death. The Shakers wouldn't have known about the Book of Mormon and the three Nephites. They were like John the Revelator and would never taste death. All would be holy men. Then I thought about the city of Enoch, which included Enoch and all his people that were taken up to heaven. They would certainly be holy men reserved to come to earth again. They possibly wouldn't know about Moses and Elijah also taken up. I suppose there could be more. Unless there has been some physical change that came upon us all will die and all are in need of repentance.
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 48:2 "And inasmuch as ye have lands, ye shall impart to the eastern brethren;"
The saints were called to gather to the Ohio. The concern was for the poor and needy that would be arriving and now to provide for them. The Lord's counsel was to impart to others. They were to practice the law of consecration. This reminds me of a story President Thomas S. Monson related in general conference, about when he was a young bishop. What really struck me is how many people in the ward welfare meeting already had the skills and means to help. They were placed there for that time to help a family in need.
“On a cold winter’s night in 1951, there was a knock at my door. A German brother from Ogden, Utah, announced himself and said, ‘Are you Bishop Monson?’ I answered in the affirmative. He began to weep and said, ‘My brother, his wife, and family are coming here from Germany. They are going to live in your ward. Will you come with us to see the apartment we have rented for them?’ “On the way to the apartment, he told me he had not seen his brother for many years. Through the holocaust of World War II, his brother had been faithful to the Church, once serving as a branch president before the war took him to the Russian front. “I observed the apartment. It was cold and dreary. The paint was peeling, the wallpaper soiled, the cupboards empty. A forty-watt bulb, suspended from the living room ceiling, revealed a linoleum floor covering with a large hole in the center. I was heartsick. I thought, ‘What a dismal welcome for a family which has endured so much.' "My thoughts were interrupted by the brother’s statement, “It isn’t much, but it’s better than they have in Germany.” With that, the key to the apartment was left with me, along with the information that the family would arrive in Salt Lake City in three weeks—just two days before Christmas. Sleep was slow in coming to me that night. The next morning was Sunday. In our ward welfare committee meeting, one of my counselors said, “Bishop, you look worried. Is something wrong?” “I recounted to those present my experience of the night before, revealing the details of the uninviting apartment. There were a few moments of silence. Then Brother Eardley, the group leader of the high priests, said, ‘Bishop, did you say that apartment was inadequately lighted and that the kitchen appliances were in need of replacement?’ I answered in the affirmative. He continued, ‘I am an electrical contractor. Would you permit the high priests of this ward to rewire that apartment? I would also like to invite my suppliers to contribute a new stove and a new refrigerator. Do I have your permission?' "I answered with a glad “Certainly.” “Then Brother Balmforth, the seventies president, responded, ‘Bishop, as you know, I’m in the carpet business. I would like to invite my suppliers to contribute some carpet, and the seventies can easily lay it and eliminate that worn linoleum. ’“Then Brother Bowden, the president of the elders quorum, spoke up. He was a painting contractor. He said, ‘I’ll furnish the paint. May the elders paint and wallpaper that apartment?’ “Sister Miller, the Relief Society president, was next to speak. ‘We in the Relief Society cannot stand the thought of empty cupboards. May we fill them?’ “The three weeks which followed are ever to be remembered. It seemed that the entire ward joined in the project. The days passed, and at the appointed time, the family arrived from Germany. Again at my door stood the brother from Ogden. With an emotion-filled voice, he introduced to me his brother, his brother’s wife, and their family. Then he asked, ‘Could we go visit the apartment?’ As we walked up the staircase leading to the apartment, he repeated, ‘It isn’t much, but it’s more than they have had in Germany.’ Little did he know what a transformation had taken place and that many who had participated were inside waiting for our arrival. “The door opened to reveal a newness of life. We were greeted by the aroma of freshly painted woodwork and newly papered walls. Gone was the forty-watt bulb, along with the worn linoleum it had illuminated. We stepped on carpet deep and beautiful. A walk to the kitchen presented to our view a new stove and new refrigerator. The cupboard doors were still open; however, they now revealed every shelf filled with food. As usual, the Relief Society had done its work. "In the living room, we began to sing Christmas hymns. We sang “Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright.” (Hymns, 1985, no. 204.) We sang in English; they sang in German. At the conclusion, the father, realizing that all of this was his, took me by the hand to express his thanks. His emotion was too great. He buried his head in my shoulder and repeated the words, “Mein Bruder, mein Bruder, mein Bruder.” “It was time to leave. As we walked down the stairs and out into the night air, snow was falling. Not a word was spoken. Finally, a young girl asked, ‘Bishop, I feel better than I have ever felt before. Can you tell me why?’ “I responded with the words of the Master: ‘Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.’ (Matt. 25:40.)” (Thomas S. Monson, “A Provident Plan—A Precious Promise," April 1986 General Conference).
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 47:1, 4 "Behold, it is expedient in me that my servant John should write and keep a regular history, and assist you, my servant Joseph, in transcribing all things which shall be given you, until he is called to further duties. Wherefore, it shall be given him, inasmuch as he is faithful, by the Comforter, to write these things. Even so. Amen."
The header to this chapter gives a little background. "John Whitmer, who had already served as a clerk to the Prophet, initially hesitated when he was asked to serve as the Church historian and recorder, replacing Oliver Cowdery. He wrote, “I would rather not do it but observed that the will of the Lord be done, and if he desires it, I desire that he would manifest it through Joseph the Seer.” After Joseph Smith received this revelation, John Whitmer accepted and served in his appointed office."
I pondered on how accepting calling we often feel unequal to it, or really don't want to do it. Though we often do because we know the Lord desires it and is his will. The blessings come when through the Spirit we are guided and made equal to the task. What a blessing it has been to many generations to have the history of the church recorded and preserved.
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 46:27 "And unto the bishop of the church, and unto such as God shall appoint and ordain to watch over the church and to be elders unto the church, are to have it given unto them to discern all those gifts lest there shall be any among you professing and yet be not of God."
I was reading an interesting post today about a group of apostates and how people have been deceived and follow them. I know it's important for me to have discernment to tell if a person is of God or not. Identifying if they are preaching false doctrine or truth. In fact I have had occasion to identify these wolves in sheep clothing. As I read this verse I am also grateful for bishops that protect their flocks. They have been given the gift of discernment in these matters. It is marvelous how the Lord has put these things in place.
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 45:68-69 "And it shall come to pass among the wicked, that every man that will not take his sword against his neighbor must needs flee unto Zion for safety. And there shall be gathered unto it out of every nation under heaven; and it shall be the only people that shall not be at war one with another."
I was thinking about this scripture just the other day. How only the saints will not be at war one with another. I realized that war didn't necessarily mean physical battle, or fleeing to a physical place. You can be at war with others with words. The battle of words is raging all around us, inciting contention and anger. It is a world-wide condition. I reflected on how President Nelson has asked us to be peacemakers. There is so much wisdom in that council. We stay out of the fray when we don't add to the contention. We have the protection of the Spirit to safely guide us. The gathering to Zion is happening around the whole world. Living as Zion people does and will bring safety and peace.
"If you are serious about helping to gather Israel and about building relationships that will last throughout the eternities, now is the time to lay aside bitterness. Now is the time to cease insisting that it is your way or no way. Now is the time to stop doing things that make others walk on eggshells for fear of upsetting you. Now is the time to bury your weapons of war. If your verbal arsenal is filled with insults and accusations, now is the time to put them away. You will arise as a spiritually strong man or woman of Christ. Let us as a people become a true light on the hill—a light that “cannot be hid.” Let us show that there is a peaceful, respectful way to resolve complex issues and an enlightened way to work out disagreements. As you demonstrate the charity that true followers of Jesus Christ manifest, the Lord will magnify your efforts beyond your loftiest imagination. I bless you to replace belligerence with beseeching, animosity with understanding, and contention with peace." (Russell M. Nelson, "Peacemakers Needed", April 2023 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 44:1-2 "Behold, thus saith the Lord unto you my servants, it is expedient in me that the elders of my church should be called together, from the east and from the west, and from the north and from the south, by letter or some other way. And it shall come to pass, that inasmuch as they are faithful, and exercise faith in me, I will pour out my Spirit upon them in the day that they assemble themselves together."
I pondered on how not only the elders are to gather but all saints too. We hold general conference twice a year. I am anxiously awaiting the April General Conference and the messages and counsel that will be given. We have been richly blessed by the out pouring of the Spirit at all of them. I marvel at how strong the spirit is while I listen intently during general conference. I can never quite capture that feeling again when I reread the talks afterwards. Yes, new things stand out to me but the initial witness of the spirit of their truthfulness is never as powerful. It must have something to do with immersing myself for two days straight. One talk right after another. I never do that when I'm going over them to study.
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 43:17-19 "Hearken ye, for, behold, the great day of the Lord is nigh at hand. For the day cometh that the Lord shall utter his voice out of heaven; the heavens shall shake and the earth shall tremble, and the trump of God shall sound both long and loud, and shall say to the sleeping nations: Ye saints arise and live; ye sinners stay and sleep until I shall call again. Wherefore gird up your loins lest ye be found among the wicked."
As I read this I thought how devastatingly horrible it would be to be found among the wicked. Especially if you thought you were righteous. The Lord comes and the saints are resurrected and you find you are to wait. I wouldn't want to wait. I love change, anything new and different. To be held back would be so hard. Then of course the realization that you failed to recognize you were off the path, and found unworthy and not ready and now made to wait. That would be even harder to face. Man, I just don't want to go through that.
“The Prophet Joseph Smith said that 'nothing is a greater injury to the children of men than to be under the influence of a false spirit when they think they have the Spirit of God' [Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 205] (Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual, "Chapter 19: Doctrine and Covenants 50")
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 42:34-35, 37-38 "Therefore, the residue shall be kept in my storehouse, to administer to the poor and the needy, as shall be appointed by the high council of the church, and the bishop and his council; And for the purpose of purchasing lands for the public benefit of the church, and building houses of worship, and building up of the New Jerusalem which is hereafter to be revealed— And it shall come to pass, that he that sinneth and repenteth not shall be cast out of the church, and shall not receive again that which he has consecrated unto the poor and the needy of my church, or in other words, unto me— For inasmuch as ye do it unto the least of these, ye do it unto me."
This made me think of the recent discussions in the news over the church's tithing funds. How some individuals after leaving the church tried to sue for the return previously paid tithing. Judges may have made the decision that tithing is not returnable, but actually it was the Lord that said it first. I reviewed an excellent article by Bishop Gérald Caussé who cares for these funds. I remember at the time how it really stood out to me that tithing funds were not just for immediate needs, but a portion is held in reserve for any possible future needs, including preparing for the second coming of Jesus Christ. The church expects future growth, with more chapels and temples. Land is invested in to help fulfill humanitarian needs, etc. We practice the parable of the talents as the Church’s financial reserves are not left idle in nonproductive bank accounts but are instead employed where they can produce a return. I know the tithing consecrated to the Lord are being watched over by faithful servants of the Lord.
"These invested funds can be accessed in times of hardship to ensure the ongoing, uninterrupted work of the Church’s mission, programs, and operations and to meet emergency financial needs. The funds are also needed to provide additional financial resources to support the Church’s mission to prepare for the Lord’s Second Coming. They will help sustain Church growth as prophecy is fulfilled that the gospel of Jesus Christ will be taught and the Church established in all nations of the earth. We anticipate that a large part of this growth will take place in the developing and populous nations of the world. Ever-increasing financial means will be required to provide thousands of meetinghouses, additional temples, and other essential resources to bless members’ lives wherever they are. In short, all these funds exist for no other reason than to support the Church’s divinely appointed mission." (Bishop Gérald Caussé, "The Spiritual Foundations of Church Financial Self-Reliance", Ensign, July 2018)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 41:5 "He that receiveth my law and doeth it, the same is my disciple; and he that saith he receiveth it and doeth it not, the same is not my disciple, and shall be cast out from among you;"
Two thoughts came to me, both a scripture and a verse. Part of the doing is serving, and it is through that service we come to know the Savior, and become his disciples.
"For how knoweth a man the master whom he has not served, and who is a stranger unto him, and is far from the thoughts and intents of his heart?" (Mosiah 5:13)
I thought about President Nelson's recent general conference talk and how our discipleship is our highest priority right now.
Brothers and sisters, now is the time for you and for me to prepare for the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. Now is the time for us to make our discipleship our highest priority. In a world filled with dizzying distractions, how can we do this? Regular worship in the temple will help us. In the house of the Lord, we focus on Jesus Christ. We learn of Him. We make covenants to follow Him. We come to know Him. As we keep our temple covenants, we gain greater access to the Lord’s strengthening power. In the temple, we receive protection from the buffetings of the world. We experience the pure love of Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father in great abundance! We feel peace and spiritual reassurance, in contrast to the turbulence of the world.Here is my promise to you: Every sincere seeker of Jesus Christ will find Him in the temple. You will feel His mercy. You will find answers to your most vexing questions. You will better comprehend the joy of His gospel. (Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 40:2 "And he received the word with gladness, but straightway Satan tempted him; and the fear of persecution and the cares of the world caused him to reject the word."
Really sad to think of what happened to James Covel. However, he wasn't unique in being tested in this manner. We all are. Satan wants nothing more than to destroy our faith. That is how he carefully leads us down to hell.
"And others will he pacify, and lull them away into carnal security, that they will say: All is well in Zion; yea, Zion prospereth, all is well—and thus the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell." (2 Nephi 28:21)
The difference is if apathy or trials come knocking we need to take that opportunity for self reflection and determine what needs to change. Those can be life changing moments if we let them. I love this story of Elder Renlund.
“In 1980 we moved as a family across the street from the hospital where I trained and worked. I worked every day, including Sundays. If I finished my Sunday work by 2:00 p.m., I could join my wife and daughter and drive to church for meetings that began at 2:30. One Sunday late in my first year of training, I knew that I would likely finish by 2:00. I realized, however, that if I stayed in the hospital just a little longer, my wife and daughter would depart without me. I could then walk home and take a needed nap. I regret to say that I did just that. I waited until 2:15, walked home slowly, and lay down on the couch, hoping to nap. But I could not fall asleep. I was disturbed and concerned. I had always loved going to church. I wondered why on this day the fire of testimony and the zeal that I had previously felt were missing. I did not have to think long. Because of my schedule, I had become casual with my prayers and scripture study. I would get up one morning, say my prayers, and go to work. Often day blended into night and into day again before I would return home late the following evening. I would then be so tired that I would fall asleep before saying a prayer or reading the scriptures. The next morning the process began again. The problem was that I was not doing the basic things I needed to do to keep my mightily changed heart from turning to stone. I got off the couch, got on my knees, and pleaded with God for forgiveness. I promised my Heavenly Father that I would change. The next day I brought a Book of Mormon to the hospital. On my to-do list that day, and every day since, were two items: praying at least morning and evening and reading in the scriptures. Sometimes midnight would come, and I would have to quickly find a private place to pray. Some days my scripture study was brief. I also promised Heavenly Father that I would always try to get to church, even if I missed part of the meeting. Over the course of a few weeks, the zeal returned and the fire of testimony burned fiercely again. I promised to never again fall into the spiritual death trap of being casual about these seemingly small actions and thereby jeopardizing things of an eternal nature, regardless of circumstances.” (Dale G. Renlund, “Preserving the Heart’s Mighty Change," Oct 2009 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 39:21 "For the time is at hand; the day or the hour no man knoweth; but it surely shall come."
I often hear people quoting this verse and the one in Matthew 24. That no man will know the day or hour of the Lord's coming. However, as I have pondered on these verses I note that He did not include the month or the year with that. We are promised to know the season. "Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled." (Matthew 24:32-33)
The Lord will do nothing but he revealeth it to his prophets. The following quote from Joseph Smith, Jr. confirms this.
"Of the Savior’s words that no man knows the day or the hour of the coming of the Son of Man (see Matt. 24:36), the Prophet asked: “Did Christ speak this as a general principle throughout all generations? Oh, no, He spoke in the present tense. No man that was then living upon the footstool of God knew the day or the hour. But He did not say that there was no man throughout all generations that should not know the day or the hour. No, for this would be in flat contradiction with other scripture. For the prophet says that God will do nothing but what He will reveal unto His servants the prophets. Consequently, if it is not made known to the prophets, it will not come to pass.” (Grant Underwood, "The Prophet Joseph Smith's Use of the Old Testament", Ensign, Aug 2002)
"Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." (Amos 3:7)
Starting in my youth we were called the promised generation. We have witnessed many things in our day as we prepare for the second coming. After us every generation of youth have been told the same thing. I hear people say "Oh, I've heard that for ages and it hasn't happened yet." As if that means because it keeps being repeated its somehow void. My thought is "You're not dead yet!" I know this is still the generation, and every generation of youth after us are part of it. Here are some interesting quotes. The first one is particularly interesting given the current First Presidency, President Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks and Henry B. Eyring were all alive when it was written. Another point of interest is satellite communication hadn't been invented yet. It isn't until around 1966 when we start to see references to a particular generation.
"Some now living may see Second Coming. The day of the coming of the Lord is near. I do not know when. I am not looking, however, upon the coming of the Son of Man as I looked once upon the day when men would speak from city to city and throughout the land without the aid of wires, and would be heard -- as something that may come in some far distant time — because I sincerely believe it will come in the very day when some of us who are here today [April 5, 1936] will be living upon the face of the earth. That day is close at hand. (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie [1955], 3:2)
"You, our youth today, are among the most illustrious spirits to be born into mortality in any age of the world. Yours is a noble heritage and a wonderful opportunity. Dedicate your lives to a new resolve. Gird yourselves with the armor of righteousness, having as your weapons the shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Be guided to fulfill your highest destiny. Be prepared to become leaders in that glorious millennial day when Christ himself will reign as King of kings and Lord of lords." (President Harold B. Lee, card given to all the youth of the church, 1973) (O. Leslie Stone, "Essentials for Success", BYU Speeches, June 26, 1973)
"Our duty is to raise up a generation of men and women worthy to receive the coming of the Lord. For he will come—to Jackson County, Missouri, to be sustained as King of Kings—and he will come also to Israel to be hailed as Lord of Lords. Then his millennial reign will be ushered in. You young, strong, and faithful men and women will bear the burden of the kingdom of God upon the earth as these days of destiny come." (Russell M. Nelson, “Four Lessons from One Life”, Brigham Young University devotional, May 14, 1974, speeches.byu.edu.)
"For the Strength of Youth was published almost two years ago, under the direction and approval of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. I announced this revision in the opening session of general conference in October 2022. President Russell M. Nelson, our dear prophet, whom we all love and admire, concluded his message with these words: "One crucial element of this gathering is preparing a people who are able, ready, and worthy to receive the Lord when He comes again, a people who have already chosen Jesus Christ over this fallen world, a people who rejoice in their agency to live the higher, holier laws of Jesus Christ." And then he added, "I call upon you, my dear brothers and sisters, to become this righteous people." My dear young friends [pause], I believe that For the Strength of Youth is an ideal resource to help us become that kind of people. This guide for making choices is a call to set aside negative worldly influences and let God prevail in your lives. (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Devotional with Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf", 2024 Utah YSA Conference Aug. 4, 2024, broadcasts.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. ISH)
The most recent quote was Feb 13, 2025 with Elder D. Todd Christofferson, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and Elder Clark G. Gilbert, of the Seventy, Commissioner of the Church Educational System.
Elder Gilbert: I’d just say, you know, to all of us who love and admire and work with young adults and youth, trust them. President [Russell M.] Nelson has told the young adults first, and then he told the whole Church, “Take charge of your testimony.” In fact, use the word “plead.” And we always pay attention when the Prophet says, “I plead with you.” And he said to the young adults in his worldwide message to them, “I plead with you to take charge of your testimony. Work for it. Own it. Feed it, and feed it. Nurture it so that it will grow.” And I have so much confidence in this generation. It is hard. What they're facing is hard. But the Lord is pouring out blessings, resources and His Spirit, in unprecedented ways. And we see that happening. And it's inspiring. The Lord's doing something powerful. He’s hastening the work, and one of the ways He's doing it is through the future of this Church, which are youth and are young adults. Elder Christofferson: Our time as general authorities, we are doing everything we can to invest in them, and to help them succeed. They have a crucial role to play in all that is happening in the Lord's plan in this dispensation. And as we are hastening toward the end, toward the conclusion of that, they are crucial. Their role is crucial. Individually, each one matters. We do all our ordinances one by one because everybody matters. And we don’t do a group baptism; we do one by one, name by name. Every person is infinitely valuable in the Lord's eyes. I know I speak for the First Presidency and the Twelve in saying this, that we pray for them, and in the name of Christ, we bless them. ("Trust the Youth," Church News, February 13, 2025, YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZBC1Y9hVlI)
